State deploys inspectors nationwide to tackle child labour

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has deployed Labour Inspectorate Officers across all 47 counties to monitor and enforce labour laws, including those related to child labour.

 

And to further safeguard children from economic exploitation, the government has developed the National Policy on the Elimination of Child Labour, which provides a coordinated, multi-sectoral response framework to facilitate better tracking, reporting, and response mechanisms at the community level on all matters regarding child labour abuse.

 

Principal Secretary for Labour and Skills Development Shadrack Mwadime acknowledged that child labour continues to be a significant challenge despite the government's commitment to eradicate it through ratification and adoption of various international conventions.

 

In a speech read on his behalf by the Secretary for Administration in the Department, Mr. Herman Shambi, during this year's commemoration of World Day Against Child Labour in Mombasa, the PS revealed that agriculture, tourism, domestic service, fishing, transport, and informal businesses are some of the high-risk sectors witnessing high incidences of child labour.

 

Recognizing that child labour is both a symptom and cause of poverty and inequality, the PS revealed that the government is in the process of reviewing labour laws to ensure alignment with international standards.

 

 

The government is also responding to evolving labour dynamics and other issues in the world of work, with an aim of advancing social justice for all.

 

"Promotion and protection of human rights and labour rights is an indispensable pillar for sustainable development which should not be treated as a privilege but a universal entitlement inherent to every individual by virtue of their humanity,” the PS noted.

 

 The PS said human rights are enablers of sustainable development as they ensure inclusive, participatory and equitable development.

 

“Unfortunately, and despite significant progress globally, the world continues to witness persistent violations in the form of exploitative labour practices, discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and exclusion of vulnerable groups from decent work," he said.

 

The PS committed to ensuring that the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection remain steadfast in enforcing child labour laws, raising awareness, and supporting community-led protection systems.

 

"Let us create a Kenya where every child can learn, thrive, and pursue their dreams in safety and dignity," he said.